18TH CENTURY SCULPTURE BOUGHT FOR £5 AND LOST FOR DECADES COULD LAND SCOTTISH COUNCIL MILLIONS

A historic sculpture bought for a mere £5 could net a Scottish community millions of pounds.

The Highland Council is considering whether to sell a bust of John Gordon created in 1728 by renowned French artist Edmé Bouchardon.

The artwork fell into obscurity after its 1930 acquisition for £5 by the Invergordon Town Council, only to be rediscovered in recent years. Despite now being worth millions the sculpture endured a tumultuous journey, reportedly being misplaced during local government reorganisation, with one account even suggesting it was utilised as a doorstop on an industrial estate.

The Highland Council's insurers have cautioned against public display due to its significant worth and so a consultation has been held over whether to sell the sculpture.

Notably, a majority of respondents in a recent public consultation supported the idea of selling the piece. Last year, the council received an offer from an overseas private buyer, facilitated by auction house Sotheby's, exceeding £2.5 million for the bust.

Should the sale proceed or an auction be held, the proceeds would bolster the Invergordon Common Good Fund, supporting local community initiatives and projects. In an upcoming meeting on Monday, local councillors will deliberate on a recommendation endorsing the sculpture's sale, following the consultation.

John Gordon was a businessman and Member of Parliament whose family held extensive lands in Easter Ross. Bouchardon's craftsmanship, showcased in this piece, reflects his talent, having created sculptures for the world famous gardens of the Palace of Versailles and the iconic Fontaine des Quatre-Saisons in Paris.

2024-05-08T17:11:18Z dg43tfdfdgfd